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PeasantYogi ("Northern Cloud Buffalo") is a space for curator Kelly Zelnira to discuss lifestyle topics, house published work, and explore her interests. Former Penn State philosophy student and Americorps graduate, she is currently in the process of receiving her Post-Bacc in Web Development, freelances for Maniac Magazine and Local Pittsburgh, models for local vendors, works in advertising for the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, and is a brand ambassador for the American Heart Association. In her free time you can find her practicing Bikram yoga, shopping at local markets, or in her car headed to a new city for the weekend. Comments and feedback are always appreciated. Thanks for stopping by.

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Aug 19 Deconstructing Decriminalization

Bill 2245 is the decriminalization of small amount of cannabis in the city of Pittsburgh and is currently listed as “Passed Finally.”

The Highlights:

As of the beginning of the New Year, “if you are found in possession of a small amount [of marijuana] or less, you’ll get a $25 ticket. If you’re found smoking it and in possession of that amount or less, you’ll get a $100 ticket” - Mayor Bill Peduto.

By the way friends, a “small amount” is considered to be 30 grams or less (over an ounce).

The Hazy Areas:

While technically speaking it’s within the rights of the police force to charge you at the federal level, Council members believe being charged for said amount unfairly prevents some people from advancing in the job market.

However, paraphernalia laws remain untouched and unmentioned. Patrick K Nightingale of Pittsburgh Norml told us that while “paraphenalia is a max 6-12 month incarceration and $2,500 fine… it is typically handled with a disorderly conduct and a preliminary hearing.”

So, ditch the pieces, guys. They're gonna get you in trouble. Too bad there's not some other kind of way to smoke. Like, the way you do with cigarettes.

Update 11/01/2016: Yes, it's 100% decriminalized to carry a couple grams and some blunt wraps as paraphernalia has been officially defined by the DEA as bongs, pipes, or syringes.